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Born-Haber Cycle

Lattice energy: U = −Mz₊z₋e²/(4πε₀r₀)(1−1/n); Born-Haber uses Hess's law cycle
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationLattice energy: U = −Mz₊z₋e²/(4πε₀r₀)(1−1/n); Born-Haber uses Hess's law cycle
Also Known AsBorn-Haber thermochemical cycle, ionic lattice energy cycle, Hess cycle for ionic compounds

What is Born-Haber Cycle?

The Born-Haber cycle is an application of Hess's law used to calculate lattice energies of ionic compounds that cannot be measured directly. It is an energy cycle that relates the lattice energy of an ionic compound to other thermochemical quantities such as ionisation energy, electron affinity, atomisation energy, and enthalpy of formation.

Formula & Notation

Lattice energy: U = −Mz₊z₋e²/(4πε₀r₀)(1−1/n); Born-Haber uses Hess's law cycle

Other Names / Synonyms: Born-Haber thermochemical cycle, ionic lattice energy cycle, Hess cycle for ionic compounds

Properties & Characteristics

The Born-Haber cycle is a thermochemical cycle that applies Hess's law to calculate lattice energies of ionic compounds that cannot be measured directly. It connects the standard enthalpy of formation of an ionic compound to measurable quantities: enthalpy of atomisation, ionisation energy, electron affinity, and lattice energy. For NaCl: ΔH_f = ΔH_atom(Na) + ΔH_atom(Cl) + IE(Na) + EA(Cl) + U(NaCl).

Uses & Applications

Born-Haber cycles are used to determine lattice energies, to assess the thermodynamic feasibility of ionic compound formation, and to compare the relative stabilities of different ionic compounds. They are fundamental tools in inorganic and solid-state chemistry.

Safety Information

The thermochemical data used in Born-Haber cycles often involves highly reactive elements (alkali metals, halogens) and high-energy processes. Practical work with these materials requires appropriate PPE and controlled laboratory conditions.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Born-Haber Cycle
Formula Lattice energy: U = −Mz₊z₋e²/(4πε₀r₀)(1−1/n); Born-Haber uses Hess's law cycle
Synonyms Born-Haber thermochemical cycle, ionic lattice energy cycle, Hess cycle for ionic compounds

Frequently Asked Questions

The Born-Haber cycle is an application of Hess's law used to calculate lattice energies of ionic compounds that cannot be measured directly. It is an energy cycle that relates the lattice energy of an ionic compound to other thermochemical quantities such as ionisation energy, electron affinity, atomisation energy, and enthalpy of formation.

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